PU The Study of Family Discussion

Introduction

In this unit, we will focus our attention on courtship, dating, and power. Specifically, we will examine the functions of dating, who we date, where we meet others, love and sexuality in courtship and dating, and the power structures present in dating and courtship. We will also apply conflict theory, a macro-level theory, to courtship, dating, and family.

ULOs

Upon completion of the module, the student will be able to:

1. Articulate and illustrate love and sexuality as it occurs in courtship and dating  (CLO2)
2. Demonstrate how power structures occur in dating and courtship (CLO2)
3. Apply conflict theory to the institution of family (CLO1)
4. Reflect on and apply the above to everyday life and personal lives.   (CLO6)

Directions

After reading the articles assigned for the week in your Ferguson text, fully answer the questions asked on each article. Each unit, you are required to post to ALL discussion prompts but only one peer post per unit is required.  You must post first before you will see other classmate’s postings.

Topic 1: “Gendered sexuality in young adulthood: Double binds and flawed options”

The author states that women are more relationship-oriented and men are more sexually adventurous.  Do you find this to be true in your personal experiences? Are hookups harmful to women? Why or why not? How do gender and class create a dilemma for college women?  Explain the power that gender beliefs have on men and women. Is there a double standard in hookups?  Explain. Do agree with the author? Why or why not?

Topic 2: “Arranged marriages: What’s love got to do with it?”

The author uses a feminist view of arranged marriages and examines how marriages and arranged marriages are similar.  Would you participate in an arranged marriage? Why or why not.  If you are in an arranged marriage, feel free to share your experiences. How are arranged marriages and marriages based on love similar? Do you think women are oppressed more in arranged marriages or love marriages? Do you agree with the author’s conclusions? Why or why not?

Topic 3: Apply any of the readings this week to your own life.